CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: ECOSOCC 5th Permanent General Assembly | African Union

Deadline: 15 July 2026

What Is This Opportunity?

The Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (ECOSOCC) has announced a call for applications for elections into its 5th Permanent General Assembly — open to eligible Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) operating at national, regional, continental, and African Diaspora levels across AU Member States.  

ECOSOCC is an advisory and consultative organ of the African Union established in 2004. It serves as a platform for promoting dialogue among African citizens on issues affecting the continent, while ensuring that civil society voices are reflected in AU policies and programmes. 

In simpler terms? This is your organisation's seat at Africa's highest table. Selected organisations will join a network of 200+ CSOs shaping Africa's development agenda across key sectors. 

Why Should You Apply?

This is your opportunity to champion inclusive voices in continental decision-making, shape AU policies and programmes that impact millions across Africa, drive Agenda 2063 with equity, empowerment, and participation at the core, and amplify the voices of African citizens.  

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants are Civil Society Organisations that are women-led, youth-led, or advancing the rights and empowerment of women, youth, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

The ECOSOCC General Assembly is composed of 209 Civil Society Organisations — including three CSOs from each AU Member State at the national level, ten regional CSOs, eight continental CSOs, twenty African Diaspora CSOs, and six ex-officio members nominated by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. At least one of the three national CSO seats per country must represent women's empowerment or youth-focused initiatives.  

How to Apply

The application process is conducted through the ECOSOCC-Connect online platform in two stages: first, registration of the organisation profile, and second, submission of the formal application for the 5th Permanent General Assembly. All supporting documentation must be provided as required on the portal.  

👉 Apply Now at ecosocc.au.int/connect

⏰ Deadline: 15 July 2026

The deadline for submission is 15 July 2026 at 17:00 Central African Time, while elections are scheduled for September to October 2026.  

Don't sleep on this. If your organisation is working for women, youth, children, the elderly, or persons with disabilities anywhere in Africa — this is your moment to take your work to the continental level.

Share this with every CSO leader you know. The continent needs your voice.